Dangerous poisons in the yard: why rat and mouse baits threaten pets
2025-09-10 13:02
In autumn, rats and mice become more active in homes and yards across Armenia. To get rid of them, people often lay poisoned baits. It may seem like an effective solution, but for our dogs and cats, even a single bite can be fatal.
Why these poisons are so deadly
Modern rodenticides are designed to kill quickly and reliably.
Anticoagulants (the most common) disrupt blood clotting. This causes internal bleeding that cannot be stopped without urgent veterinary care.
Some poisons attack the nervous system, leading to seizures, paralysis, and severe neurological damage.
Others affect the heart and breathing, causing sudden collapse.
Baits are often made deliberately “tasty”, with added flavors to attract rodents — but dogs and cats are equally drawn to them.
Poison can also enter indirectly: a cat catches a poisoned mouse, or a dog finds a dead rat.
First symptoms
Signs don’t always appear immediately. Sometimes it takes 1–2 days before the pet shows illness.
Weakness, lethargy
Pale or bluish gums
Bleeding from the nose or gums
Coughing or vomiting blood
Blood in urine or stool
Loss of coordination, seizures
Any of these symptoms means urgent action is needed.
What to do if poisoning is suspected
Take your pet to the clinic immediately. Every minute counts.
If you know the poison used or still have the packaging — bring it with you. It helps the vet choose treatment.
Do not try home remedies. Milk, charcoal, or folk methods will not stop the toxin.
How to protect your pet
Keep your dog on a leash during walks.
Don’t allow pets to roam near trash bins or yards where baits may be placed.
If you must use rodenticides at home, always choose closed bait boxes that pets cannot access.
At “Shunn u Katun” we see too many cases of poisoning like this. It is always a struggle for life. And the most painful thing is that these tragedies could have been prevented.
Protect your animals. Rat poison doesn’t distinguish between a rodent and your beloved pet.